Fortenberry named DI Pitcher of the Year

Weatherford College's Robert Fortenberry is the 2024 National Junior College Athletic Association DI Baseball Pitcher of the Year.   

"Robert Fortenberry exemplifies excellence in every facet of life," said Jud Kinzy, WC pitching coach. "Whether on the field or off, he consistently shines and embodies the spirit of a champion in all he undertakes. When it's a Bob start day, you can count on his relentless effort and unwavering determination to get a win, regardless of the situation.  

"His phenomenal 23-1 record speaks volumes about his invaluable contribution to the Coyote pitching staff over the past two years. He stands as one of the most remarkable players to don a Coyote uniform. I'll miss giving him the ball and watching him take the mound, but I look forward to what his future holds. It's been an absolute privilege to know him both as an athlete and as a person."  

This season for the Coyotes, Fortenberry had a 2.19 ERA with 75 strikeouts and 13 wins in 74 innings played. His 13 wins are second in the nation, while his 2.19 ERA was thirteenth.   

"This is a well-deserved honor for Fortenberry," said Jeff Lightfoot, head baseball coach. "This is a guy that shows up every day for work and competes his tail off. Robert left his mark on our program and leaves behind an example of what being a Coyote is all about."  

Last season for Weatherford, Fortenberry had a 2.74 ERA with 79 strikeouts and 10 wins in 75.2 innings played. His freshman year pitching helped lead the Coyotes to a third-place title in the 2023 NJCAA DI Baseball World Series.  

"Robert Fortenberry's selection as the 2024 NJCAA DI Baseball Pitcher of the Year is no surprise," said WC President Tod Allen Farmer. "This national award is indicative of the excellence of our baseball program and our athletic programs in general."  

The NJCAA DI Baseball All-American will continue his academic and athletic career at Mississippi State next year. 

Player Profile 

Position: LHP 

Hometown: Frisco, TX 

Bats/Throws: L/L 

Year: Sophomore 

2024 Statistics 

15 appearances 

1 complete game 

74 innings pitched 

2.19 ERA  

75 strikeouts 

13 wins 

2024 Accomplishments 

NJCAA DI First Team All-America

All-Conference

Co-Conference Pitcher of the Year 

First Team All-Region 

2X NJCAA Region V North Pitcher of the Week